Advice sought.

I have a North Face Talus from 2002. I have a ALPS dome tent from 2019. The NF is a two person. The ALPS is a four.

My 10 year old and I are going on a 5 night trip into BWCA. The NF tent is a better size for us, but I am concerned about the age. It's been used maybe 20 times in 20 years.

I'm leaning towards the ALPS simply because I think I am less likely to find out it leaks.

Thank you.

You could seam seal the NF and hit the tub and rain fly with new waterproof finish. I've got a NF tadpole of similar age that's still kicking. Definitely test it in the yard to make sure the weatherproofing worked.

Yep, if you're worried you could treat the older tent. Or pack an innie so you're not dependent on the floor of the tent for its waterproofness

Condition issues aside, what type of trip are you planning?
Probably not that much weight, packed size, difference if not portaging a lot and might the additional space be a plus especially if you get some inclement weather.
If only the two of you tripping most sites would have a pad large enough for the larger option. Just something else to consider.
I have several tents in the older vintage range and they are all still going strong.

Zipper integrity is my only concern for tents in general. Also, I much, much prefer the space that a four-person tent provides. This would especially be the case if you are not bringing a tarp system. Innie for sure regardless of the tent. And I would opt for a two-door over a one door unit.

Stretch out and enjoy the bigger space!

Thank you for all your thoughts and advice. In the end, I'm still unsure. But, you all gave me different angles to dwell on. Will probably let the garden hose be the final determining factor.

cyclones30: "Yep, if you're worried you could treat the older tent. Or pack an innie so you're not dependent on the floor of the tent for its waterproofness "

Keep the footprint and upgrade to an Everywhere mat by Rumpl for inside your tent? Great for hot summer nights when the bathtub floor of the tent is too sticky…

Set up your North Face tent in the yard on a night that rain is expected and give it a look over in the morning to see if there were any leaks. If the tent is still in good shape and not beaten up (which I doubt if you have only used it a few time) I am sure it will work just fine.